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How To Fix A Cooktop Element That's Not Heating

Repairing a range, stove or oven can seem like a big task, but our customers tell us how easy it is every single day. To help you diagnose an element that won’t heat for a range, oven or stove, we’ve created this guide of the parts most likely to fix an element that won’t heat. Use this information to understand how a range or oven works, how to determine which part is the cause and how to get the right part for your model. You can also get more details on your specific range, oven, or stove by entering your model number into the search box.

Surface burners are typically either a coil type, solid type or a ribbon coil as used in smooth top ranges. All of these consist of a heating wire that uses electric current to produce heat. Coil type elements can be checked for continuity by removing them from the terminal block and testing them with a multi-meter. You should also inspect the terminal ends for signs of heat damage or corrosion, and if present, you should replace the terminal block or receptacle at the same time. You will need to remove power from the range to change the terminal block. Solid elements and smooth top elements require raising or removing the main top to gain access. You will need to remove power from the range before lifting the main top. Continuity can then be checked with a multi-meter, once you have removed the wires from the element terminals.

The burner receptacle or terminal block is used to connect coil elements to the internal wiring. The receptacle is located underneath the cooktop and is mounted to it by one or two screws. If the elements are not heating up then the receptacles may be faulty. Check the element terminals for signs of corrosion, arcing or overheating and, if present, replace both the terminal block and the element.

The infinite switch on the control panel controls the power to each element. If you have no heat at an element and the element and terminal block check ok, then you may have a defective infinite switch. Disconnect power to the range and remove the console back panel. Locate the switch and check for overheated wires or faulty terminals first. Test the switch’s contacts for continuity with a multi-meter. If defective, replace the switch. If the infinite switch does not appear to be defective, then you should check for proper voltage to the switch. This is a live high voltage test and should only be performed by qualified persons!

More Repair Parts

We've identified the most common parts that can cause a cooktop’s elements to not heat, but there are other parts that could be at fault. If you are unable to fix your range with the information above, enter your model number into the search box for additional repair help. Searching with your model number will give you access to all parts and schematics, symptoms for your specific oven or range as well as all installation instructions and videos.